🤧 Not Just a Cold? Signs You Might Have Pneumonia 🤒
Feeling under the weather with a runny nose and nagging cough? 🥶 At this time of year, it’s easy to dismiss it as just a common cold or flu. But when should you start to worry about pneumonia instead?
🌬️ Pneumonia sets in when your lungs become infected, causing the tiny air sacs to fill with fluid or pus. This makes breathing hard and triggers a host of symptoms like coughing, fever, and chest pain. Unlike a simple cold, pneumonia might leave you feeling exceptionally fatigued and frail.
👨⚕️ Dr Claire Agathou, an expert on respiratory health, explains the pneumonia cough tends to be “productive,” meaning you might notice green, yellow, or rusty phlegm. Feel exceptionally feverish or out of breath? These signs may point towards pneumonia rather than a cold.
Certain folks should be extra cautious: elderly people, babies, or those with weakened immune systems. In these groups, pneumonia can be particularly vicious. Seeking medical advice quickly if symptoms persist beyond a week is crucial. Early treatment with antibiotics can speed up recovery and keep you from getting worse.
🩺 Your GP might check your oxygen levels, breathing rate, and temperature to determine whether you’re dealing with pneumonia. If it’s mild, antibiotics can help treat it at home. Severe cases might require hospitalisation.
Why’s pneumonia more common when it’s chilly? Cold weather challenges our immune systems, and illnesses like flu tend to spread more. To reduce your risk, bolster your immune system with a healthy lifestyle and consider those seasonal flu or Covid jabs if you’re eligible.
Want to know more about keeping your lungs healthy this winter? A good place to start is getting informed and taking proactive measures to stay well. Stay safe, everyone! 🌟